Schools across the state are looking to change their approach to homework.

According to NJ Monthly, Galloway Township has banned written assignments on weekends, Ridgewood High introduced a homework-free holiday break and Sleep In Wednesday, where kids can come to school an hour later than normal and teachers in Red Oaks in Morristown have the freedom to choose what assignments their students get based on the kids' capabilities.

Rutgers psychology professor Maurice Elias talked to parents in a number of schools that are navigating away from traditional homework.

"Parents in many cases are working two jobs, both full-time, kids are involved in activities like sports, dance, and there is just not enough hours in the day for students to be doing 5 or 6 hours of homework after being at school all day."

Elias says in some cases it can be parents in the middle.

"It can cause a conflict between a parent and child and sometimes a parent and the school so I think that's also a major reason why schools are taking a closer look at homework."

He says its all about balance.

"Kids need time to play and be outdoors, but they also need structure and enough work to keep their brains stimulated outside the classroom."

Research from the University of Michigan has shown that homework has increased from two hours to four or more in recent years.